Product Description
You might call this Pythagoras Gone Mad. It is a fractal representation of Pythagoras Theorem and was inspired by the work of a young teacher who gave his pupils a diagram of the centre of this design and asked them to complete it. They soon realised it was impossible to complete as they had to add ever smaller pieces and, if they had the physical means, could keep going for ever.
We turned the children’s drawings into an afghan and you can now make your own version from this pattern.
It is very easy to make as it is all in garter stitch. You can use any yarn of your choice. Many of the pieces are knitted separately and stitched into place so it is a very portable project. It is also possible to use this as a group project.
The booklet has instructions for making the afghan plus a little more information about the mathematics behind it. It also includes a colouring sheet so you can plan your own colour combinations.
Read the story of this afghan on Ravelry or on Woolly Thoughts web site.
Pythagorean Ripples by Woolly Thoughts
Project Overview
Pythagorean Ripples is a geometric afghan or wall-hanging designed by Pat Ashforth and Steve Plummer of Woolly Thoughts. This knitted blanket combines mathematical principles with fiber arts, drawing inspiration from Pythagoras' Theorem and fractal geometry. The finished afghan measures approximately 125 cm (50 inches) square, making it a substantial decorative or functional piece suitable for warmth or display purposes.
Construction Method
This knitting project uses a modular construction technique, where individual components are created separately and then assembled. The design consists of 65 squares and 108 triangles, each available in 4 different sizes. Rather than working the entire piece in one continuous piece, knitters complete each square individually, then knit triangles directly onto these squares. Once all components are finished, the small pieces are stitched together to form the complete afghan. This approach makes the project manageable and allows for flexibility in assembly.
Knitting Techniques and Stitches
Pythagorean Ripples is worked entirely in garter stitch, making it an accessible project for beginners. Garter stitch—created by knitting every row—produces a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges. This fundamental stitch requires only basic knitting knowledge, making the pattern suitable for those new to the craft. The modular construction also breaks the project into smaller, less intimidating sections.
Materials and Yarn
The pattern is designed to be worked using two strands of Double Knitting yarn held together. Double Knitting (DK) is a lightweight to medium-weight yarn that, when doubled, creates a substantial fabric appropriate for a full-sized afghan. The pattern notes that yarn choices can easily be adapted to other yarns, allowing knitters to customize the project based on personal preference, available materials, or desired finished weight and drape.
Design Variations
In addition to the afghan configuration, the pattern includes instructions to convert the design into a wall-hanging. This versatility allows crafters to choose their preferred finished project type, whether as a cozy blanket for a sofa or bed, or as a mathematical art piece for display on a wall.
Difficulty Level
This pattern is classified as a beginner-level project. While the mathematical concept behind the design may seem complex, the actual knitting techniques required are fundamental, and the modular approach simplifies the overall construction process.
```Specifications
| Brand: | Independent Designer |
| Pages: | 0 |
| Designer: | Woolly Thoughts |
| Craft: | Knitting |
| Format: | Downloadable PDF |
| Languages: | English |
| Number of Patterns: | 1 |
| Skill Level: | Beginner |
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your experience.